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The central theme of "Bridging the Divide" speaks to the reconciliation of broken relationships, the breaking down of barriers like fear and pride, and the power of intentional actions to restore unity. The associated scripture that captures the essence of this song is Ephesians 2:14-16, which states: "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility."
Let us examine what the Word of God says about bridging divides and the divine calling to reconcile relationships both horizontally with each other and vertically with God.
The Apostle Paul is the author of the letter to the Ephesians. This epistle addresses the division between Jewish and Gentile believers in the early church. Ephesus was a significant city of commerce and trade, bustling with a mix of cultures and religions. The animosity between Jews, who adhered to the Law, and Gentiles, who were considered outsiders, was tangible. Paul, in the power of the Holy Spirit, presents Jesus Christ as the peace that eliminates such hostility, calling both groups into one unified body. The context of Ephesians 2:14-16 is thus a message of reconciliation — breaking down walls of division and enmity.
### 1. Peace (Greek: Eirēnē)
The Greek word for "peace," is "eirēnē," and it embodies more than the cessation of conflict. It speaks of wholeness, harmony, and tranquility. This word is used in Ephesians 2:14, revealing that Christ's role is not merely to stop hostility but to create a new, complete unity and fellowship among believers.
### 2. Barrier (Greek: Mesotoichon)
The term "mesotoichon" refers to the "dividing wall," or barrier. In an ancient context, this indicated a literal wall of separation such as the wall that separated the Court of the Gentiles from the inner courts of the Jerusalem Temple, symbolizing exclusion. Paul uses this term metaphorically to express how Christ abolished this exclusion and division, calling all into direct access to God the Father.
The lyrics begin by illustrating a wall built by fear and pride. In a similar vein, sin and human constructs of division can build barriers in our relationships much like the wall of hostility in Ephesians. Fear and pride are often the source of division, isolating individuals in false fortresses. Proverbs 16:18 reminds us, "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall."
The prechorus speaks of intentional movement—"step by step," "one small step"—which echoes James 4:8: "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you." Our actions, initiated by trust in God, facilitate reconciliation. The imagery of storms clearing and smiles cutting through doubt aligns with Psalm 34:17, "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all of their troubles," emphasizing God's desire to foster peace and presence in our lives.
Just as the song suggests "turn the noise to something real," Philippians 4:8 tells us, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." When we intentionally focus on genuine reconciliation, we transform superficial interactions into authentic connections.
### Step 1: Recognize and Repent
First, we must recognize any walls of pride and fear in our lives, obtaining a heart of repentance. Psalm 139:23-24 urges us, "Search me, God, and know my heart... see if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
### Step 2: Pursue Reconciliation
Second, we actively pursue reconciliation as Christ did. This requires humility and a willingness to meet others where they are, illustrated perfectly in Matthew 5:23-24, where we are instructed to reconcile with our brothers and sisters before offering our gift at the altar.
### Step 3: Speak Words of Life
Third, we must find the words we need to say, ensuring our communication is filled with grace and truth. Colossians 4:6 advises, "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."
### Step 4: Walk in Love
Finally, we walk in love just as Christ loved us, serving as living testimonies of His reconciliation. Ephesians 5:2 proclaims, "Walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."
Proclamation:
In the authority of Jesus Christ, I declare that every wall of division and hostility is broken. I proclaim that Christ is my peace, and through His sacrifice, I am reconciled first to God and then to others. I stand in the wholeness, unity, and love that Jesus has provided, meeting others in grace and truth.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I thank You that through Christ, You have brought us near. Empower us by Your Spirit to choose steps of reconciliation, shattering walls of pride and fear. Let Your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. May we be channels of Your love and unity. In the precious name of Jesus, Amen.
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